Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease management guidelines of the Croatian Respiratory Society Croatian Medical Association and the Croatian Thoracic Society
Autori:
Andrea Vukić Dugac, Eugenija Basioli Kasap, Marija Gomerčić Palčić, Đivo Ljubičić, Suzana Mladinov, Sanja Popović-Grle, Sanda Škrinjarić Cincar, Gordana Pavliša, Radovan Zrilić, Miroslav Samaržija, Neven Miculinić, Žarko Vrbica
Sažetak
Summary
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most prevalent respiratory diseases and a major cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. It is characterized by persistent symptoms, a progressive course, and numerous comorbidities, placing a significant burden on healthcare systems and economic resources. Optimal management requires a standardized, yet personalized approach based on the assessment of the risk of exacerbations, clinical presentation, and the presence of comorbid conditions. Long-acting inhaled bronchodilators remain the cornerstone of therapy, while inhaled glucocorticoids are used selectively, based on specific biomarkers such as peripheral blood eosinophilia or cardiovascular risk. The Croatian COPD guidelines provide a structured and individualized therapeutic approach that integrates contemporary insights into patient phenotyping, optimization of pharmacological treatment, and the importance of non-pharmacological measures in reducing mortality. Special emphasis placed on the role of primary care physicians in the early detection of the disease and initiation of treatment, as well as the need for improved education in the management of acute exacerbations. The implementation of these guidelines is expected to improve clinical outcomes and rationalize the use of healthcare resources in Croatia.